Atria Watford has confirmed that the former John Lewis unit is not full just yet — after four more stores were announced.

When the department store closed its Watford branch in 2021, shoppers had questioned which businesses would be able to take over the massive unit.

In May 2023, it was announced that Dunelm would be moving in but would not be taking over the full space. Instead, it has been divided up into multiple smaller units.

Poundland and Dunelm are the stores that have opened so far, and on Wednesday (February 21) it was announced that B&M, Choice Discount, Peacocks, and Bonmarché will also be filling up the unit.

However, atria Watford has confirmed that six shops is not the final tally. More lease agreements for parts of the unit are expected to be announced at a later date if the details are finalised with the businesses.

Announcing the latest batch of additions this week, Steve Gray, from atria Watford managers Global Mutual, said: “It’s great to see new brands coming to the centre and the revitalisation of the former John Lewis unit is indicative of increased confidence across the sector.

“We look forward to the store openings later this year.”